Are you a manager looking to manage the growing number of compensation cases in your company? Do you want to broaden your knowledge on the topic? Or are you experiencing challenges in your company due to employee compensation cases? Well, look no further.
According to the National Safety Council, workplace injuries cost companies, the nation, and people over $170 billion in 2019. Implementing effective measures to prevent and manage these incidents significantly reduces costs.
Injuries at work present a challenging situation among the stakeholders. As a manager how you handle an employee’s compensation case will determine whether it will be a lengthy court battle or a smooth transition for all parties. This article will provide tips on how managers can handle employees with workers’ compensation cases to ensure minimal effect on productivity, and morale while safeguarding the company.
1- Maintain Open Communication
Employees need support and information when they have compensation cases. As a manager, you must reach out to the employee, and reassure them of the organization’s support and commitment to their recovery. This will make them feel seen and cared for by the organization. Ensure the employee understands their rights and benefits and the compensation procedure.
Recommending them to a reputable workers’ compensation attorney will go a long way in ensuring they get fair compensation and their rights are upheld. Remember other workers are always watching how you handle these cases to determine whether they should renew their contracts. Clear their doubts!
2- Collaborate With the HR and Insurance Companies
The compensation process will only be successful if the HR submits the necessary documents to the insurance providers. As a manager, you should always work with HR to ensure they have all documents on record.
During this period, the employee needs the process to be faster to return to normalcy. Always follow up with the HR and insurance providers to ensure the employee gets their compensation on time. Coordinate with the employee to obtain any missing information. This is one of the times to build employee loyalty to the company.
3- Ensure a Smooth Transition to the New Reality
Adjusting to the new way of life can be challenging. Life-altering injuries can affect the mental health of an employee. As a manager, you can ensure a smooth transition by recommending them to seek professional help and ensuring they get their compensation. Highlighting the company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion will go a long way if they have catastrophic injuries.
4- Coordinate a Smooth Transition Back to Work
Going back to work after a long sick leave can be hectic. As a manager, you can ease this process by assigning the employees light duties before they adjust. Also not pressuring them to return to work too soon will go a long way in promoting the employee’s health and avoiding legal issues.
As a manager protecting everyone’s interest should always be your top priority. A company cannot survive without employees, and employees need to feel valued as a person, not just for their job responsibilities. Handling compensation cases with empathy will promote morale, and trust, and build a strong foundation for the company.
